- How Do You Manage Symptoms of Cancer?
- How Does Medical Marijuana Work for Cancer Symptoms?
- What Can I Expect After Using Marijuana For Cancer-Related Symptoms?
- What Are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Cancer Patients?
- Am I a Candidate for Medical Marijuana for Cancer-Related Symptoms?
- reTHINK CANNABIS Reviews
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Manage Cancer-Related Challenges
- Ready to Get Started?
- Get In Touch
- Related Services
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How Do You Manage Symptoms of Cancer?
Cancer can take an extreme physical and emotional toll on the people it affects. Between the unexplained weight changes, fatigue, discomfort, and disruptions to their routines, many cancer patients also struggle with the side effects that come with treatment. Whether you're undergoing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or another targeted therapy, these approaches each come with their own challenges that can cause just as much discomfort as the condition itself, including nausea, loss of appetite, and ongoing pain and fatigue. When these symptoms develop together, the effect can be exhausting. That's why patients often turn to medical cannabis for relief. Instead of targeting just one symptom, cannabis relieves a variety of cancer-related symptoms at once — not as a cure, but a way to help you manage and move forward. At reTHINK CANNABIS, Dr. Charlene Shaw is committed to educating patients on the benefits of medicinal cannabis and changing the way we think about this groundbreaking treatment. Whether you live in Pennsylvania or Florida, Dr. Shaw will work with you to understand your needs and help you gain control over your health. Schedule a consultation online or at our office in Fort Lauderdale, FL to learn more about how medical marijuana can help you manage your cancer-related symptoms.
How Does Medical Marijuana Work for Cancer Symptoms?
We'll start with a thorough consultation to discuss your symptoms and determine if medicinal marijuana is a good option for you. Both Florida and Pennsylvania classify cancer as an eligible condition, but we'll discuss your needs before moving forward. During your consultation, Dr. Shaw will review your condition, answer any questions you might have about medicinal cannabis for cancer, and go over the next steps in getting your patient card. Medical cannabis comes in a variety of forms, including flower (the smokable plant), edibles, vape pods, tinctures, and more, so you can choose the delivery method that's best for you.
After you receive your card, we may schedule regular follow-up appointments to monitor your health and track any changes in the symptoms you're experiencing. Based on which state you live in, occasional follow-ups are required to maintain your medical marijuana certification.
What Can I Expect After Using Marijuana For Cancer-Related Symptoms?
After your treatment with medical cannabis begins, you can expect to see a gradual improvement in your cancer-related symptoms. Many patients report a significant reduction in nausea, which can help restore their appetite and combat unwanted weight loss. Cannabis can also provide relief from chronic pain, allowing for better rest and increased mobility. Furthermore, medical cannabis is known to help with anxiety and improve mood, which can be invaluable when dealing with the emotional stress of a cancer diagnosis. Dr. Shaw will guide you on the appropriate dosage and form of cannabis to ensure you receive the maximum benefit with minimal side effects. We hope to help you to feel more comfortable and in control as you navigate your cancer journey.
What Are the Benefits of Medical Marijuana for Cancer Patients?
Traditional medicine has ways to help treat cancer-related symptoms, such as anti-nausea meds or painkillers. While these options are effective, they're not appropriate for everyone, and most only target one symptom while coming with unwanted side effects. Medicinal cannabis offers relief for cancer-related symptoms without creating a new set of problems, providing benefits that include:
- Relieves chronic pain and discomfort
- Eases nausea and helps improve appetite
- Calms anxiety
- Address multiple cancer symptoms at once
- Can help patients avoid a complicated pill regimen to manage cancer symptoms
- Provides quick relief with few to no side effects
Am I a Candidate for Medical Marijuana for Cancer-Related Symptoms?
If you’re receiving cancer treatment and struggling with symptoms that interfere with daily life, medical marijuana may be an option to help provide relief. In Florida, cancer is a qualifying condition for certification, and physicians can also approve the use of cannabis for comparable symptoms that significantly affect wellness. At reTHINK CANNABIS, our team takes time to review your medical history and symptoms so we can recommend the safest, most effective approach for your care. Some of the most appropriate candidates for medical marijuana in cancer symptom management include:
- Patients dealing with ongoing pain during cancer care
- Those experiencing persistent nausea or loss of appetite
- Individuals coping with anxiety or difficulty sleeping
- Cancer patients seeking supportive therapies to improve quality of life
reTHINK CANNABIS Reviews
Best service I’ve received!I went in to renew my marijuana license and the entire process was incredibly smooth. Dr. Shaw made me feel very comfortable, answered all of my questions thoroughly, and was so humble and kind throughout. I’m truly grateful I was referred to her—highly recommend! 👌
Dr Shaw is amazing. I went for my appointment and left my tumbler there. She sent it back to me in the mail along with recipes of teas I wanted to learn more about. Thank you Dr. Shaw for your package and attention to detail.
Dr. Shaw asked me why "I" felt I needed THC and opened up a proper discussion for a solution. Great Experience!
Dr Shaw is everything a physician should be. She asks the right questions and really takes time to get to know her patients.I strongly recommend Dr Shaw.
Professional, Intelligent, and friendly! Dr. Shaw is an amazing doctor who I would highly recommend to anyone looking for care.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Does medical cannabis for cancer patients show up on a drug test?
Yes, medical cannabis use will typically result in a positive test for THC on standard drug screenings, regardless of whether it is used under medical supervision. Most drug tests are designed to detect THC metabolites and do not distinguish between medical and recreational use. If you are undergoing routine drug testing - such as for employment, legal reasons, or transplant eligibility - it is important to discuss your medical cannabis use with your oncology team and any other relevant parties and to understand policies and laws that may apply to you in order to avoid unintended complications.
Will medical cannabis help with nausea during chemotherapy?
Many cancer patients report significant relief from chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting with the use of medical cannabis. Cannabis may interact with receptors in the brain that regulate nausea, potentially offering an alternative or complement to traditional antiemetic medications. While individual responses can vary, medical cannabis is often considered when conventional treatments are insufficient. Our team can help determine if it’s a safe and appropriate option based on your specific treatment plan.
Should I stop medical cannabis after I'm in cancer remission?
Whether or not to continue medical cannabis use after remission depends on your ongoing symptoms, quality of life, and long-term treatment goals. Some patients find that cannabis continues to help with lingering side effects, such as neuropathy, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. Others may no longer need it once active treatment ends. We’ll work closely with you to reassess your needs during and after remission and develop a safe, personalized plan that supports your overall well-being.
Manage Cancer-Related Challenges
The challenges of cancer go beyond the condition itself. For cancer patients struggling with treatment-related side effects or emotional difficulties, reTHINK CANNABIS is here to help with a different approach. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaw online or in person at our Fort Lauderdale, FL office to learn if medical cannabis can help you enjoy a higher quality of life after cancer.